Longitudinal stability refers to an aircraft's ability to maintain its flight path without excessive control input. It ensures that when the aircraft is disturbed, such as by turbulence, it will naturally return to its original attitude. This stability is primarily influenced by the design of the aircraft's wings, tail, and center of gravity. In practical terms, a longitudinally stable aircraft will not pitch up or down uncontrollably. Instead, it will have a tendency to level off after a disturbance. This characteristic is crucial for safe and efficient flight, allowing pilots to focus on navigation and other tasks without constantly adjusting for unwanted movements.